Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Tremfya (guselkumab) and Taltz (ixekizumab) are both monoclonal antibody medications used to treat moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. However, they belong to different classes of interleukin antagonists. Tremfya targets interleukin-23 (IL-23), while Taltz targets interleukin-17 (IL-17). Tremfya is also used for ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, while Taltz is approved for additional conditions like ankylosing spondylitis and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis. Tremfya is typically injected every 8 weeks after initial doses, whereas Taltz is injected every 4 weeks after the starting doses. Both medications are only available as brand-name options. Common side effects for both include upper respiratory infections and injection site reactions. Both medications can increase the risk of infections due to their effects on the immune system, and you should avoid live vaccines while using them.
Tremfya (guselkumab)
Taltz (ixekizumab)
Tremfya (guselkumab)
Taltz (ixekizumab)
Summary of Tremfya vs. Taltz
Summary for Interleukin antagonist
Prescription only
Tremfya (guselkumab) is an injection for adults with certain inflammatory conditions. It helps treat plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease. Tremfya (guselkumab) is a monoclonal antibody known as an interleukin antagonist. It calms your immune system to lower inflammation. The dosing schedule is every 1 or 2 months, depending on your condition and how far along you are in treatment. Side effects are upper respiratory infections, headache, and injection site reactions. There's also a risk of other infections and liver problems as long-term side effects.
Summary for Interleukin antagonist
Prescription only
Taltz (ixekizumab) is an injection that's given under the skin. It helps treat inflammatory conditions, including plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and some types of arthritis in the spine. This medication works as an interleukin antagonist to lessen inflammation in the body. You inject Taltz (ixekizumab) once a month using the prefilled syringe or autoinjector. The dose depends on the health problem you're treating. Side effects include upper respiratory infections. You also might feel pain or have redness around the injection area. Taltz (ixekizumab) is a brand-name medication.